MURRAY – Frances Clara

Frances Murray, our own Anne of Green Gables, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Saturday, May 8, 2010, at the age of 82 years.

Frances was born in Moose Jaw, SK on August 14, 1927. While performing the lead role in the school play “Anne of Green Gables”, she fell in love with her “Gilbert”, played by Robert (Bob) Murray. These high school sweethearts married in 1949 after which they travelled through the world following Bob’s work and raising three children. During their travels Frances touched the lives of many across the four corners of the globe, finally settling in Calgary in 1973. Frances and Bob delighted in surrounding themselves with friends and family and their home was the centre of many wonderful social gatherings. Frances was passionate about her Blue Jays baseball team, never failing to cheer them on with every game. She was also an adept bridge player who spent her time volunteering for various charities, the most recent being the Ladies Foothills Hospital Auxiliary. Frances was unfailingly gracious in every aspect of her life and her memory will be cherished for her caring nature and generosity.

Frances will be dearly missed by her husband of sixty years Bob Murray; as well as her three children, Richard (Lenice) Murray, Shauna Pratt and Carole (Jerry) Sapieha. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Valerie (Duyane), Douglas, Ryan and Kelsey; and by her two great-grandchildren, Castor and Logan. She will remain in our hearts forever.

Frances’ family invites all of her friends to attend a Celebration of her life at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Crowfoot Chapel (82 Crowfoot Circle N.W.), on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. You may forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Your mum was a wonderful person who has left me with beautiful memories to cherish. I am such a lucky person to have known and loved her for so many years. I am sorry I can’t be there with you but my love, hugs and tears are being sent from Australia to you.

Dear Bob and Family.
My(and our) sincere and heart-felt condolences for the loss of Frances. I have memories of your warmth, generosity and merriment which were shared with you both during our brief stay, and I always remember Mum’s fond references from my childhood about the Murray’s from Calgary.
Our thoughts are with you.
Much love
Digby (Carmel, India and Grace)

We were very sorry to learn of the passing of Fran. Mom will miss her greatly as she considers you both two of her closest and dearest friends. I can only remember Fran smiling and giving her little chuckle. She was a wonderful ball of energy and kind person.

Dear Family,
I’m sorry that I could not be there in person. I’ve missed all of you very much and will miss Grandma. I remember an instance that napkins are not napkins but they are “serviettes” it was this unique character that helped to develop a wide understanding of culture in my life. Though silent in her lay-z boy sipping on coffee, when it came down to business ( blue jays games) she was very boisterous of her opinion, in a good way of course, without loss of tact. We will all miss you Grandma but you will always be with us as the fond memories of you will never fade from existence.

How saddened I was to hear of the loss of your beloved Frances, Mom, Grandma… What a beautiful sweet soul she will always Be.

She was always mindful of everyone; wanted to make sure all were comfortable, fed, cared for. I especially remember her kindness to me that week following my surgery in January of ’97. Wow. Now that is Love.